Buildings were not generally common on cups. However, castles were, probably because they not only represent Japan and Japanese culture, but they were often used for military purposes during the 1930s and 40s. Of course, they were originally built for defensive purposes as well.

Many of the castles on cups and bottles are named. Most commonly found in Himeji Castle, probably because it is not only one of the 'Three Famous Castles' in Japan but also the most visited. (The other two Famous Castles are Matsumoto and Kumamoto Castles.)

Nagoya Castle was used as an Army headquarters during the war, so it was appropriate as a military symbol.

Monuments are found here and there, but they are uncommon. The one most often found is the War Dead monument built in Manchuria, which not only evoked the memory of others who died for Japan but also the area in Manchuria.

Unidentified castle

Himeji Castle

Unidentified castle

Oftentimes castles were used as a general motif since they were commonly associated with Japan itself. These castles were not named on the cup. The cup to the right here not only has a huge castle taking up most of the pattern, but it also has artillery and limber.

Unidentified castle

Japanese castle cup: Shirosagi-jou, or Snowy Heron Castle. This is the nickname of Himeji Castle. Also inscribed '10th Division.'